Dunn Vineyards

Dunn Vineyards, nestled in the heart of Napa Valley at 805 White Cottage Road, is a name synonymous with exceptional mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery has carved a niche for itself by focusing on crafting wines that are not only intensely flavored but also possess the structure and tannins necessary for graceful aging. Their commitment to quality over quantity has solidified their position as a benchmark producer of Napa Valley Cabernet.

Over the years, Dunn Vineyards has cultivated a loyal following of wine enthusiasts who appreciate the winery's commitment to producing age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon. Their wines are often cellared for years, even decades, before being enjoyed, a testament to their structure and complexity.

Founded with a vision to showcase the unique terroir of Napa's mountain appellations, Dunn Vineyards has remained steadfast in its dedication to producing wines that reflect the character of the land. The winery's history is one of unwavering focus, meticulous vineyard management, and a deep respect for the art of winemaking.

The cornerstone of Dunn Vineyards' success lies in its prime vineyard locations, particularly on Howell Mountain. The rugged terrain, well-drained soils, and high elevation of Howell Mountain contribute to the unique character of the grapes grown there. These vineyards experience cooler temperatures and greater diurnal temperature variations compared to the valley floor, resulting in grapes with thicker skins, concentrated flavors, and higher acidity.

The focus on mountain fruit allows Dunn Vineyards to produce Cabernet Sauvignon that exhibits distinctive characteristics, including intense dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and a pronounced minerality. These elements combine to create wines that are both powerful and elegant, capable of evolving beautifully over time.

Dunn Vineyards is renowned for its commitment to sustainable farming practices that prioritize the health of the vineyard ecosystem. These practices include careful canopy management, cover cropping, and minimal intervention in the vineyard, all aimed at producing the highest quality grapes possible.

The winemaking process at Dunn Vineyards is characterized by a minimalist approach, allowing the quality of the grapes to shine through. Fermentation typically takes place in stainless steel tanks, followed by aging in French oak barrels. The wines are bottled unfined and unfiltered to preserve their natural flavors and aromas.

Dunn Vineyards is primarily known for its Cabernet Sauvignon wines, particularly the Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon and the Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The Howell Mountain bottling is considered the flagship wine, showcasing the full potential of this renowned appellation. The Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon offers a slightly more approachable expression of the varietal, while still maintaining the winery's signature style.

The resulting wines are characterized by their intense aromas of black currant, cassis, and cedar, along with notes of graphite and spice. On the palate, they are full-bodied and structured, with firm tannins and a long, lingering finish. These are wines that demand attention and reward patience, revealing their full complexity with age.

During a tasting at Dunn Vineyards, guests have the opportunity to sample a selection of the winery's current releases, as well as potentially older vintages from their library. The tastings are typically led by knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the winery's history, winemaking philosophy, and the unique characteristics of the mountain terroir.

Dunn Vineyards is a by-appointment-only winery, offering a personalized and intimate tasting experience for visitors. Due to the limited production and high demand for their wines, visits are highly sought after and require advance planning.

While Dunn Vineyards does not offer a traditional tasting room experience, the opportunity to visit the winery and taste their exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon is a memorable experience for any serious wine enthusiast. Contacting the winery directly is the best way to inquire about availability and schedule a tasting.

As the winery looks to the future, they remain dedicated to preserving the traditions that have made them successful, while also exploring new ways to improve their farming practices and enhance the quality of their wines. The next generation is poised to continue the Dunn family's legacy of excellence.

Dunn Vineyards has established a lasting legacy as one of Napa Valley's premier producers of mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. Their unwavering commitment to quality, sustainable farming practices, and minimalist winemaking has earned them critical acclaim and a loyal following.

Dunn Vineyards serves as an inspiration to other wineries in Napa Valley, demonstrating the potential of mountain fruit and the importance of sustainable winemaking. Their wines are a testament to the power of terroir and the dedication of a family committed to crafting exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon.